Kauno Zalgiris 3 Minija 0  Lithuanian Cup Final 2026

This final matched the top division champions against the leaders of the second level in the impressive Darius and Girenas Stadium in Kaunus.

The home side, who will play Brighton soon in the UEFA Conference League, were bidding for their first Cup, although various iterations of clubs from Kaunus have won the title in past years.

While second tier Minija, from Kretinga, had a previous success albeit from over 60 years ago.

This Minija have an interesting profile, now being owned by French star Moussa Dembele via his Triple-M investment group.

Benefiting from their links to AS Mansa in Mali, they can field a number of Malian players in their squad and they do have the look of a progressive outfit (even more so clad in Argentinian-style kit)

And they were well supported by a lively group of fans.

However, on this rainy afternoon the underdogs were second best.

Kauno would go ahead half way through the first period when Croatian Leon Krekovic found space down the left and saw his deflected effort elude the Minija goalie.

The top level side should have extended their advantage after Mohamed Sidibe’s (Mali) foul gave them a spot kick. 

But the highly regarded Amine Benchaib struck the post, to keep Minija in the contest.

 

Into the second period and a mistake by Malian Makan Diawara allowed forward Debeljuh a comfortable finish.

He could have added another when set up by the skilful Benchaib, but shot well over.

Ultimately the outcome was decided when a left cross was neatly headed home by Konatar with around 15 minutes remaining, to make it 3-0.

Minija continued to battle, despite having limited chances, but never managed a consolation.

While the introduction of Brazilian Ribeiro caused them further problems down the left.

However, they did keep it to three, and their efforts were well appreciated at the end by their fans.

Though it was the local contingent who celebrated, with the customary flares.

Though Kauno can look forward with some positivity, they face a much harder test against Premier League high flyers, Brighton.

Report from Kaunus – John Bethell